Record turnout as SheSails conference champions giving back

This year's SheSails International Conference drew 345 registrations, the biggest turnout since the event began.

Held online on Monday 19 October as part of World Sailing's Steering the Course Festival, the conference ran under the theme "Give to Gain." The idea was simple: share knowledge, offer mentoring, create opportunities for others, and in doing so strengthen the wider sailing community while setting up the next generation to do the same.

Sailors, coaches, officials, volunteers and leaders logged on to hear from a strong line-up of speakers, each reflecting on who had helped shape their own path in the sport.

Nic Douglass, known across the sailing world as SailorGirlHQ, returned as MC. She guided the evening through stories, discussions and reflections on how giving back can create lasting opportunities and positive change throughout the sport.

Clubs also hosted their own live screenings, giving members a chance to gather and share the experience together rather than watching alone.

The standout moment came with the exclusive unveiling of the trailer for Shape of Wind, a new short film tracing a mother and daughter's journey with sailing. It follows the people, places and moments that have shaped their connection to the water.

Producer Micha Alon, featured sailor Greta Carroll and film advisor Belinda Stowell OAM joined the conversation afterwards, sharing the inspiration behind the project and how the story was brought to life. Passing on a love of sailing to future generations emerged as a recurring thread.

Clubs keen to host their own screening of Shape of Wind can submit an Expression of Interest, which gives them access to the film along with a suggested run sheet to help plan and deliver their event.